Set at 3,500 feet on the west slope of Mt. Shasta, this scenic little mill town was owned by the McCloud Lumber Company from 1897 to 1965. It looks now much as it did then. The streets here are wide, and there is little traffic and plenty of trees. The area is famous for excellent fishing, and the McCloud River is the only one in California populated with the rare endangered Dolly Varden Trout (formerly known as the Bull Trout). It also is well known for square dancing and hiking.

Attractions

Waterfalls 6 mi. from town. Drive scenic River Loop Road to the parking area for three waterfalls reached by an easy to moderate river walk that runs 3.8 miles round trip. The Middle Falls is the most exquisite.

Hotels

The Guest House 606 W. Colombero Dr. 7 rooms. Full breakfast. No pets. Sitting above town amid 6 acres of gardens and a park-like expanse of lawn, this grand 1907 California Craftsman-style house was originally the home of the McCloud River Lumber Company’s owner. Breakfast is sometimes served on a large veranda with a view of the mountain, and antique furnishings include an ornate pool table in the lounge. Notable past guests include President Herbert Hoover, baseball player Ty Cobb, and actress Jean Harlow, as well as several members of the Hearst family.

McCloud Hotel 408 Main St. 15 rooms. No TVs. Afternoon wine & appetizers; full breakfast; restaurant. A registered national landmark, this hotel was built in 1916 on the same foundation as a prior hotel that burned down that same year. It once had 96 rooms and provided housing for mill workers and teachers, and its basement was the town library until the 1960s. Now meticulously restored, its old-fashioned lobby invites lingering over a board game or book. The individually decorated rooms are spacious and furnished with rescued and restored pieces original to the hotel and area. A canopy bed, whirlpool tub for two, and balcony are available in one suite, and breakfast can be delivered to your room. A TV lounge is set up in the gift shop, and a dedicated ironing room is available to guests.